Michael Hartono, the Indonesian billionaire and co-owner of Como 1907, has died at the age of 86. His passing marks a significant moment for the Serie A club, which he and his brother, Robert Budi Hartono, rescued from lower divisions and guided to a position challenging for European qualification.
The Hartono brothers, among the wealthiest individuals in Indonesia, acquired Como in 2019, initiating a period of substantial investment and revitalization. Their financial backing and vision propelled the club back into Serie A, Italy’s top flight and currently have Como positioned to potentially qualify for the Champions League – a remarkable turnaround for a team that had languished outside the top tier for decades.
According to reports from Indonesian media outlets, Michael Hartono passed away on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. As of Wednesday morning, March 19, 2026, Como 1907 had not yet issued an official statement regarding his death.
Born on October 2, 1939, Michael Bambang Hartono, alongside his brother Robert, built a vast business empire originating in the tobacco industry with Djarum. The Hartono family’s holdings have since diversified into banking (BCA), electronics (Polytron), and real estate, establishing them as a dominant force in the Indonesian economy. Their son, Victor Hartono, 54, has served as CEO of Djarum since 1999.
The Hartono family’s net worth is estimated at $43.8 billion, making them the richest family in Indonesia. Michael Hartono was not only a successful businessman but also a dedicated philanthropist, with the Djarum Foundation actively supporting education, sports, and environmental initiatives. He was also a passionate bridge player, advocating for its inclusion in the Asian Games, where his team won a bronze medal in 2018.
The origins of the Hartono empire trace back to 1950, when their father, Oei Wie Gwan, purchased a bankrupt cigarette company and rebranded it as Djarum, meaning “gramophone needle.” Djarum quickly became one of Indonesia’s leading producers of clove cigarettes, known locally as *kretek*. The family’s business interests have expanded significantly over the years, including a substantial stake in Bank Central Asia, Indonesia’s largest bank by market capitalization, prime real estate holdings in Jakarta, and the electronics brand Polytron, which entered the electric vehicle sector in 2025. They also hold a stake in Razer, a Singapore-based gaming hardware company.
The Hartono brothers’ investment in Como represents a growing trend of foreign ownership in Italian football, bringing significant financial resources and ambition to clubs seeking to compete at the highest level. Their commitment to Como has not only revitalized the team on the pitch but has also injected new energy into the local community.
Como currently sits in a strong position in the Serie A standings, with a realistic chance of securing a Champions League berth for next season. The club’s success is a testament to the Hartono brothers’ vision and investment, and Michael Hartono’s legacy will undoubtedly be remembered by the club’s fans for years to come.
The passing of Michael Hartono leaves a void in the world of both business and football. His dedication to Como 1907 helped transform the club into a competitive force in Serie A, and his philanthropic efforts extended far beyond the realm of sports. As Como continues its pursuit of Champions League qualification, the team will undoubtedly be playing in honor of their late owner.
What’s Next: Como 1907 is scheduled to face Fiorentina on March 22, 2026, in a crucial Serie A match. The club is expected to hold a moment of silence in Hartono’s memory before kickoff.
Archysport will continue to provide updates on this developing story.
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